A total of 61 patients with chronic low back pain for at least 12 weeks prior to the study were randomized into one of three groups. Group 1 received 12 sessions of laser therapy, 2 per week for 6 weeks; Group 2 received the same laser therapy as Group 1, but added an exercise program; and Group 3 received placebo laser therapy and an exercise program.

Conclusion:

Laser therapy seemed to be an effective method of decreasing pain and reducing disability in chronic low back pain in combination with exercise compared with exercise alone.

The mitochondria (powerhouses of the cell) in Parkinson’s disease tissues are metabolically and functionally compromised. Mitochondria supply the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (gasoline for the cell) essential for the survival of neuronal cells (sends and receives electrical signals over long distances within the body). This study focuses on whether laser therapy can reduce the compromised mitochondria.

Conclusion:

The results of this study support the proposal that treatment with laser can improve neuronal function in patients with Parkinson’s disease and holds potential for the treatment of complex neurological conditions such as those from a stroke.

Since chronic neck pain affects up to 24% of the population, the goal of this study is to create an imperative for evidence-based, cost effective treatments. In all, 16 randomized controlled trials including a total of 820 patients were conducted and included those diagnosed with neck strain, neck sprain, mechanical neck disorders, whiplash, neck disorders, and neck and shoulder pain.

Conclusion:

Laser therapy reduces pain immediately after treatment in acute neck pain and up to 22 weeks after completion of treatment in patients with chronic neck pain.

In order to test the anti-inflammatory effect of laser therapy on activated tendinitis of the human Achilles tendon, seven patients who sought help for their bilateral Achilles pain were targeted.

Conclusion:

Specific levels of laser therapy will reduce inflammation and pain in activated Achilles tendinitis. Laser therapy may therefore have potential in the management of diseases with an inflammatory component.

Other Modalities

Eighty-four patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia were randomly assigned to an intervention group (craniosacral therapy) or placebo group (simulated treatment with disconnected ultrasound). The treatment period was 25 weeks. Post-treatment follow up at 6 months and 1 year.

Conclusion:

The present study shows that craniosacral therapy improves the quality of life of patients with fibromyalgia, reducing their perception of pain and fatigue and improving their night rest and mood, with an increase in physical function.